Hot Volcanoes

My top volcanoes

Soufriere Hills Volcano, Montserrat

Montserrat's Soufriere Hills Volcano has been active since 1995 when it awoke from 400 years of slumber. The southern half of the island is still evacuated including the buried capital Plymouth, a modern-day Pompeii. Wonderful resilient people who've learnt to live with a firey neighbor. Well worth a visit - also check out http://www.visitmontserrat.com/

Mount St Helens, Cascades, US

Mount St Helens erupted catastrophically on May 18th 1980 killing around 60 people and devastating an area of around 600 square kilometers. Activity recommenced in late 2004 and a new lava dome is growing in the crater so climbing is prohibited for now. The Coldwater Ridge visitor center is fascinating for all ages, and the views from the closer Johnston ridge observatory open in summer sound impressive.

Mount Yotei, Hokkaido, Japan

Also known as "Ezo Fuji" as its beautiful conical shape resembles its more famous friend. Yotei last erupted in around 3500 BC. Now it provides a stunning backdrop to skiing endless champagne powder in Niseko. Great backcountry skiing on the volcano itself according to local friends.

Mount Rainier, Cascades, US

The highest peak in the Cascades at 4392m, Mt Rainier periodically emerges from its cloudy cloak to dominate the Washington skyline. Rainier had minor splutters in the 19th century, and larger eruptions in the last few thousand years. Perhaps the most challenging Cascade volcano to climb.